Trying to break into tech without a degree or experience? Entry level IT certifications are still the fastest way to build real skills and land your first job. Below are the top beginner friendly certifications, along with exam costs, retirement dates, and renewal details so you know exactly what each one involves.

1 CompTIA Tech+ (FC0-U71)

CompTIA’s newest entry exam teaches the absolute fundamentals of computers, networks, and cloud without overwhelming newcomers. You will learn how hardware, operating systems, development basics, and security fit together in modern IT environments. Many students use Tech+ as a confidence builder before tackling A+.

Best for: Absolute beginners and high school students

Jobs you can land: Junior IT Support, Computer Technician trainee

Typical salary: $45 000 – $60 000

Time to earn: 4 – 6 weeks

2 CompTIA A+ (220-1201 & 220-1202)

Industry hiring managers still list A+ more than any other entry cert because it proves you can install, configure, and troubleshoot PCs, mobile devices, and operating systems in real workplaces. The new 1200-series adds stronger coverage of SaaS, cloud, and mobile security. Passing both Core exams shows you are job ready for front line support roles.

Best for: Total beginners

Jobs you can land: Help Desk Technician, IT Support, Field Technician

Typical salary: $48 000 – $72 000

Time to earn: 6 – 10 weeks

3 CompTIA Network+ (N10-009)

Network Plus shows that you understand how modern networks function regardless of the vendor. It covers core topics like routing, switching, WiFi, VLANs, and basic network security across both on premises and hybrid cloud environments.

The 2024 update keeps the exam aligned with real world trends by adding zero trust security concepts and SDWAN fundamentals. It also meets Department of Defense 8570 requirements and serves as a strong foundation before moving on to Security Plus.

Best for: Moving into networking or security
Jobs you can land: Network Support, Junior Administrator, NOC Technician
Typical salary: $60 000 – $82 000
Time to earn: 6 – 12 weeks

4 Google IT Support Professional Certificate (Coursera)

Created by Google and offered through Coursera, this six course program is designed to simulate a real help desk job. It includes hands on labs covering Linux, networking, and troubleshooting. You learn at your own pace, pay monthly, and complete graded support tickets instead of taking a single proctored exam.

Graduates get access to a network of companies that partner with Google and are open to hiring people who finish the course. You can also combine this credential with CompTIA A Plus to improve your job chances and overall return on investment.

Best for: Budget learners and career switchers

Jobs you can land: IT Support Specialist, Technical Support

Typical salary: $60 000 – $65 000

Time to earn: 3 – 6 months (self-paced)

5 CompTIA Security+ (SY0-701)

Security+ is the baseline cyber credential that covers threats, risk management, architecture, and incident response. The 701 update tightens focus on zero trust, cloud security, and automation, making it relevant for modern SOC workflows. It satisfies DoD 8570 requirements and is often a must have for analysts targeting $80 k plus salaries.

Best for: Aspiring cybersecurity analysts

Jobs you can land: Security Analyst, SOC Tier 1, InfoSec Support

Typical salary: $82 000 – $100 000

Time to earn: 8 – 14 weeks

6 Microsoft Azure Fundamentals (AZ-900)

AZ-900 verifies that you understand core Azure services, global infrastructure, pricing, and governance without diving into deep admin tasks. The exam is ideal for sales engineers, project managers, and junior cloud support staff who need to “speak Azure” with confidence. Because it costs under $100 and takes less than an hour of exam time, the ROI is excellent.

Best for: Cloud beginners

Jobs you can land: Cloud Support Associate, Azure Admin Assistant

Typical salary: $55 000 – $85 000

Time to earn: 2 – 4 weeks

Final tip

Still not sure where to start? Tech+ → A+ → Network+ is the simplest three step ladder. Add Security+ or AZ-900 once you know whether cyber or cloud excites you most.

CompTIA renewal note

All CompTIA certifications listed above are valid for three years and can be renewed through Continuing Education Units, passing the next version exam, or earning a higher level credential.

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Resources

• CompTIA Tech+ official exam page

• CompTIA A+ 220-1201 / 1202 page

• CompTIA Network+ official page

• CompTIA Security+ SY0-701 page

• Google IT Support Professional Certificate

• Microsoft AZ-900 exam FAQ